Are you wondering what to wear on your visit to volcanoes National Park? We bring you recommendation on what you need to consider for your gorilla safari in Rwanda, be it on a golden monkey safari that Volcanoes is well known for especially to tourist visiting East Africa as most of them come to Rwanda to see the mountain gorillas.
Rwanda has no strict dress code on what to wear, although women travelers are advised to dress conservatively. In this guide, our focus is to guests seeking to track mountain gorillas or be part of any activities in Volcanoes National Park to mention include, Bisoke hike, Dian Fossey trek, a walk through Musanze caves, vising the Buhanga Eco Park, Iby Iwacu visit among others
Cotton clothing is the most comfortable during the day, as it gets quite hot, but the nights tend to be chilly, so a heavy sweater and boots are essential. For gorilla trekking, you will need to be trekking in a rainforest, so it will more than likely than not, rain. Warm clothing is required as well as walking/hiking boots, a hat and lightweight parka/raincoat. Garden gloves, to avoid stinging nettles, and gaiters, are recommended.
Gorilla Trekking Gaiters
Be mindful of what to wear/Clothing:
-At least three fast-drying, collared shirts with long sleeves.
-A pair of fast-drying, long waterproof pants – thick enough to ward off stinging nettles.
–One pair of closed, sturdy and comfortable walking shoes – lightweight/quick drying are ideal (note that heavy boots can be difficult to use in the trekking activities and dry).
-One pair closed river/waterproof shoes/gum boots or “wellington boots”.
-One pair of comfortable shoes for when at the lodge.
-Socks – calf length or longer to avoid exposing ankles.
-Long gaiters (some lodges have a supply should guests wish to borrow some like Bisate, One and Only Gorilla Nest).
-Comfortable, casual and cool clothing for when at the lodge.
-One light fleece/jumper for cooler evenings.
-Rain gear/ponchos for when at the lodge.
-Sun hat and swimming costume.
-One pair of garden gloves (Some Lodges like Bisate has a supply should guests wish to borrow some).
-slightly more formal attire for your stay at prestigious city hotels.
Other Packing Suggestions
While our general travel information includes a suggested packing list, the area and conditions in Rwanda are different to our other areas of operation. As the African rain-forest including Nyungwe forest can be very muddy and wet, it is recommended that you bring enough suitable clothing (including socks) to allow time for laundered items to dry in the often humid and wet conditions.
Please also take special note that T-shirts, short pants and sandals are NOT suitable attire. Ideal clothing is that which is quick drying, lightweight, in greens or browns and that has long sleeves/trouser legs.